Sinn Féin - On Your Side

Public representatives must listen to the views of trade unionists – Morgan

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Workers Rights Arthur Morgan TD today attended the third day of the biannual conference of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. Speaking from the conference in Bundoran Arthur Morgan said it was important that public representatives listened to what the trade unions were saying. He reiterated Sinn Fein's commitment to work with the trade union movement on key areas of social and economic concerns to union members.

Morgan said, "Sinn Féin is committed to working with the Trade Union movement across Ireland and a strong positive working relationship has now developed between us. ICTU represents 770,000 workers north and south. It is important that public representatives come to conferences such as this and listen to what trade union members are saying. I am delighted to be here today when ICTU delegates are discussing key social and economic issues including the health service.

"There are many challenges ahead that progressive parties such as Sinn Féin and the trade union movement will have to work together on if we are to be successful. These challenges include opposing privatisation of public services - and in particular in the health service and the postal service both of which are currently facing threats of privatisation.

"Another key challenge on which we must cooperate is ensuring that jobs are protected and that standards of living and quality of life are maintained and improved in the event of less favourable economic circumstances. Workers are at the moment very concerned by a number of economic developments. Standards of living are being eroded as inflation pushes up the cost of living. Interest rate hikes are making mortgage repayments increasingly difficult for many workers. These issues need to be addressed by Government.

"I hope that all trade unionists will recognise Sinn Féin's genuine commitment on these issues and our commitment to improving workers rights. Earlier this year Sinn Fein adopted a Workers Policy that is much more comprehensive than anything from the other parties. We have put forward significant and innovative proposals that seek to end exploitation in the workplace and improve standards and conditions for all workers." ENDS